SEMA Member News—January 2020

By Ellen McKoy

Brian Massingill, SAM Tech’s vice president of business development, recently joined the SEMA Scholarship Committee.

Scholarships have a long history in our country. In fact, the very first scholarship dates to colonial times before our country became the United States of America. In 1643—long before the United States declared its independence—Lady Anne Radcliffe created a scholarship at Harvard with an endowment of 100 British pounds to honor her late husband, Thomas Mowlson, who had been Lord Mayor of London.

Flash forward 376 years. For many students currently enrolled in or aspiring to attend college or a technical school, scholarships are a lifeline—a financial leg up that can help to pave the way to a future career. Fortunately for students seeking careers in the automotive specialty-equipment market, the SEMA Memorial Scholarship Fund has been providing that leg up for more than three decades.

The SEMA Scholarship Committee, comprised of volunteers and SEMA staff, is tasked with overseeing and guiding the program. This year, the fund awarded $272,000 in scholarships to worthy students as well as loan-forgiveness awards to employees of SEMA-member companies, bringing the total to more than $2.5 million awarded to more than 1,500 students since the program was launched in 1984.

Recently, the committee added a noted influencer to its ranks. Brian Massingill serves as the vice president of business development for the School of Automotive Machinists & Technology (SAM Tech). Last summer, he was named one of the industry’s young trendsetters, joining SEMA News’ 2019 class of “35 Under 35.”

Although not a member of the Scholarship Committee, Marla Moore is also a well-known influencer. Marketing director for Legendary Companies (formerly the Coker Group), she has a long-standing connection to the scholarship program and a deep-rooted interest in bringing young people into the aftermarket industry.

SAM Tech students at work in the CNC lab. The school takes a hands-on approach to preparing students for careers in motorsports and the automotive performance industry.

Both Moore and Massingill have successfully navigated their courses through the industry, arriving at their destinations in roundabout ways. Moore was exposed to the racing world as a youngster but pursued a degree in fine arts. A series of smart career moves led unexpectedly to the aftermarket and her current role. Along the way, Moore also earned a reputation as a perennial volunteer, serving in various capacities with SEMA councils and networks.

Massingill, on the other hand, inherited a passion for motorsports from his drag-racing parents, who founded the Houston-based SAM Tech. As a teenager, he raced the family’s Suburban and, later, a COPO Camaro. After college, he gravitated to the film industry. But the pull of motorsports and the idea of helping to nurture the next generation of high-performance pros was too strong. Massingill shifted gears and joined the family enterprise.

SEMA Member News recently spoke with Moore and Massingill. We asked them about their backgrounds and how their industry experiences and visions could help SEMA and the committee best utilize available resources to attract bright, educated and talented young people to our industry.

Marla Moore: Paving the Way

“My dad was a car guy,” Moore said. “He was always rebuilding cars. He was in the Air Force, but it just came naturally to him. He also liked going to drag races. Because I was an artist, he took me to the track, where I painted names and numbers on the sides of race cars.

“I graduated from high school with scholarships in engineering and art. I chose the University of Memphis, where I was a fine arts major. After college, I was an illustrator for high-end department stores. While helping a friend with graphic design work, I applied for a job as a graphic designer at the same company. And here’s the part that first tied into automotive: It was the original Auto Trader magazine.

“From there, I was [recruited] by an ad agency. My top clients were Tropicana, Federal Express and Auto Shack, which offered me a job as art director. I took Auto Shack to its first SEMA Show in the early ’80s and worked on rebranding when the name changed to Auto Zone. I was then offered a job at Comp Cams as creative director and later moved into advertising and marketing. Then I was hired at Hypertech, and I joined Coker Tire in 2013.

“Working in automotive was always the furthest thing from my mind. Apart from my job as a graphic designer for a publication that just happened to be in automotive, I never applied for a job in this industry. But this industry has given me opportunities I never could have imagined.

“My first experience as a volunteer was at Hypertech. Amy Faulk was on the Scholarship Committee and asked me to help with the SEMA Silent Auction. As a SEMA council and network volunteer, there’s a need to [address] new technologies and to build a talent pipeline for young people.

“That’s a concern for everybody: how we reach young people and get them into our industry. We could do a better job of educating kids at a young age that they don’t have to go to college. They can attend a trade school, sign on as an apprentice, and make a good living in an industry that’s lots of fun.

“We also need to educate high-school counselors about our industry and that it can be an easy route for a lot of students. Many high schools no longer have shop classes. But there’s usually a trade school in every city. Maybe we could work with trade schools to create a pathway for students to take classes there. Those things can take years to develop, but we have to figure out how to cultivate that talent pool.

“Scholarships are a big carrot to get kids into our industry. It’s important to ensure that the fund has a strong financial foundation so we can continue to attract the next generation. I have great admiration for Kim Pendergast, the Scholarship Committee chair, and I’m excited to see what the committee is able do.”

Brian Massingill: Educating a Future Workforce

“I grew up in this industry,” Massingill said. “My dad owned Northwest Engine Supply, and my parents were into drag racing as a hobby. They opened SAM Tech in 1985 to provide technical and machinist career training in the racing industry.

“After I got my driver’s license, I started racing our Suburban at Houston Raceway Park and then moved into a Z/28 Camaro. I raced all through high school but didn’t get any credit for it as an athletic activity, because the athletic director said it wasn’t a real sport.

“I went to the University of Texas, Austin, but left before graduating to work on movies and TV shows. I got a job offer in Los Angeles and worked behind the camera on reality shows. After returning to the university, I had to decide between moving to L.A., staying in Austin working on film and TV, or working for my parents. At the time, they hadn’t given that idea much thought, but they were buying a COPO Camaro, so I volunteered to race it and became a full-time employee in 2012.

“I started out working in admissions and then moved into the business side. I work with sponsors and with the NHRA SAMTechedu.com Factory Stock Showdown, help to connect students with potential employers, and look for other areas, such as EFI, where we can fulfill a need. We also take a group of students to the Performance Racing Industry (PRI) Trade Show and coach them on how to use it as a job fair.

“We’re more hands-on than other vocational schools. We’re teaching machinists, not technicians. We offer block, head, CNC machining, EFI calibration and an associate’s degree program. My biggest challenge is convincing parents who might have to sign off on a loan and want their kid to go to a more traditional four-year college. But students are here because of the hands-on work they’re doing and their passion for it.

“The big thing for me is educating people about career options. Last year, I had the privilege of meeting Kim Pendergast to talk about the scholarship program. When she called out of the blue to ask me to be on the committee, Kim said she wanted an insider view from an educator’s standpoint.

“We talked about maybe having some fundraisers at dragstrips across the country with a percentage of the proceeds going to the scholarship fund. I’m very excited. Just being able to help more students, not just our own, is huge. I’ll help any way I can to get the next generation of gearheads and performance enthusiasts into this industry.”

Online applications for next year’s scholarship and loan-forgiveness awards will be accepted from November 1, 2019, through March 1, 2020, at www.sema.org/scholarships. For additional information or questions, contact SEMA Student Programs Manager Juliet Marshall by phone at 909-978-6655 or via email at julietm@sema.org.

SEMA Member News—January 2020

By Ellen McKoy

Brian Massingill, SAM Tech’s vice president of business development, recently joined the SEMA Scholarship Committee.

Scholarships have a long history in our country. In fact, the very first scholarship dates to colonial times before our country became the United States of America. In 1643—long before the United States declared its independence—Lady Anne Radcliffe created a scholarship at Harvard with an endowment of 100 British pounds to honor her late husband, Thomas Mowlson, who had been Lord Mayor of London.

Flash forward 376 years. For many students currently enrolled in or aspiring to attend college or a technical school, scholarships are a lifeline—a financial leg up that can help to pave the way to a future career. Fortunately for students seeking careers in the automotive specialty-equipment market, the SEMA Memorial Scholarship Fund has been providing that leg up for more than three decades.

The SEMA Scholarship Committee, comprised of volunteers and SEMA staff, is tasked with overseeing and guiding the program. This year, the fund awarded $272,000 in scholarships to worthy students as well as loan-forgiveness awards to employees of SEMA-member companies, bringing the total to more than $2.5 million awarded to more than 1,500 students since the program was launched in 1984.

Recently, the committee added a noted influencer to its ranks. Brian Massingill serves as the vice president of business development for the School of Automotive Machinists & Technology (SAM Tech). Last summer, he was named one of the industry’s young trendsetters, joining SEMA News’ 2019 class of “35 Under 35.”

Although not a member of the Scholarship Committee, Marla Moore is also a well-known influencer. Marketing director for Legendary Companies (formerly the Coker Group), she has a long-standing connection to the scholarship program and a deep-rooted interest in bringing young people into the aftermarket industry.

SAM Tech students at work in the CNC lab. The school takes a hands-on approach to preparing students for careers in motorsports and the automotive performance industry.

Both Moore and Massingill have successfully navigated their courses through the industry, arriving at their destinations in roundabout ways. Moore was exposed to the racing world as a youngster but pursued a degree in fine arts. A series of smart career moves led unexpectedly to the aftermarket and her current role. Along the way, Moore also earned a reputation as a perennial volunteer, serving in various capacities with SEMA councils and networks.

Massingill, on the other hand, inherited a passion for motorsports from his drag-racing parents, who founded the Houston-based SAM Tech. As a teenager, he raced the family’s Suburban and, later, a COPO Camaro. After college, he gravitated to the film industry. But the pull of motorsports and the idea of helping to nurture the next generation of high-performance pros was too strong. Massingill shifted gears and joined the family enterprise.

SEMA Member News recently spoke with Moore and Massingill. We asked them about their backgrounds and how their industry experiences and visions could help SEMA and the committee best utilize available resources to attract bright, educated and talented young people to our industry.

Marla Moore: Paving the Way

“My dad was a car guy,” Moore said. “He was always rebuilding cars. He was in the Air Force, but it just came naturally to him. He also liked going to drag races. Because I was an artist, he took me to the track, where I painted names and numbers on the sides of race cars.

“I graduated from high school with scholarships in engineering and art. I chose the University of Memphis, where I was a fine arts major. After college, I was an illustrator for high-end department stores. While helping a friend with graphic design work, I applied for a job as a graphic designer at the same company. And here’s the part that first tied into automotive: It was the original Auto Trader magazine.

“From there, I was [recruited] by an ad agency. My top clients were Tropicana, Federal Express and Auto Shack, which offered me a job as art director. I took Auto Shack to its first SEMA Show in the early ’80s and worked on rebranding when the name changed to Auto Zone. I was then offered a job at Comp Cams as creative director and later moved into advertising and marketing. Then I was hired at Hypertech, and I joined Coker Tire in 2013.

“Working in automotive was always the furthest thing from my mind. Apart from my job as a graphic designer for a publication that just happened to be in automotive, I never applied for a job in this industry. But this industry has given me opportunities I never could have imagined.

“My first experience as a volunteer was at Hypertech. Amy Faulk was on the Scholarship Committee and asked me to help with the SEMA Silent Auction. As a SEMA council and network volunteer, there’s a need to [address] new technologies and to build a talent pipeline for young people.

“That’s a concern for everybody: how we reach young people and get them into our industry. We could do a better job of educating kids at a young age that they don’t have to go to college. They can attend a trade school, sign on as an apprentice, and make a good living in an industry that’s lots of fun.

“We also need to educate high-school counselors about our industry and that it can be an easy route for a lot of students. Many high schools no longer have shop classes. But there’s usually a trade school in every city. Maybe we could work with trade schools to create a pathway for students to take classes there. Those things can take years to develop, but we have to figure out how to cultivate that talent pool.

“Scholarships are a big carrot to get kids into our industry. It’s important to ensure that the fund has a strong financial foundation so we can continue to attract the next generation. I have great admiration for Kim Pendergast, the Scholarship Committee chair, and I’m excited to see what the committee is able do.”

Brian Massingill: Educating a Future Workforce

“I grew up in this industry,” Massingill said. “My dad owned Northwest Engine Supply, and my parents were into drag racing as a hobby. They opened SAM Tech in 1985 to provide technical and machinist career training in the racing industry.

“After I got my driver’s license, I started racing our Suburban at Houston Raceway Park and then moved into a Z/28 Camaro. I raced all through high school but didn’t get any credit for it as an athletic activity, because the athletic director said it wasn’t a real sport.

“I went to the University of Texas, Austin, but left before graduating to work on movies and TV shows. I got a job offer in Los Angeles and worked behind the camera on reality shows. After returning to the university, I had to decide between moving to L.A., staying in Austin working on film and TV, or working for my parents. At the time, they hadn’t given that idea much thought, but they were buying a COPO Camaro, so I volunteered to race it and became a full-time employee in 2012.

“I started out working in admissions and then moved into the business side. I work with sponsors and with the NHRA SAMTechedu.com Factory Stock Showdown, help to connect students with potential employers, and look for other areas, such as EFI, where we can fulfill a need. We also take a group of students to the Performance Racing Industry (PRI) Trade Show and coach them on how to use it as a job fair.

“We’re more hands-on than other vocational schools. We’re teaching machinists, not technicians. We offer block, head, CNC machining, EFI calibration and an associate’s degree program. My biggest challenge is convincing parents who might have to sign off on a loan and want their kid to go to a more traditional four-year college. But students are here because of the hands-on work they’re doing and their passion for it.

“The big thing for me is educating people about career options. Last year, I had the privilege of meeting Kim Pendergast to talk about the scholarship program. When she called out of the blue to ask me to be on the committee, Kim said she wanted an insider view from an educator’s standpoint.

“We talked about maybe having some fundraisers at dragstrips across the country with a percentage of the proceeds going to the scholarship fund. I’m very excited. Just being able to help more students, not just our own, is huge. I’ll help any way I can to get the next generation of gearheads and performance enthusiasts into this industry.”

Online applications for next year’s scholarship and loan-forgiveness awards will be accepted from November 1, 2019, through March 1, 2020, at www.sema.org/scholarships. For additional information or questions, contact SEMA Student Programs Manager Juliet Marshall by phone at 909-978-6655 or via email at julietm@sema.org.

SEMA News—January 2020

EVENTS

By Fredy Ramirez and Douglas McColloch

The 2019 SEMA Vehicles of the Year

Recognizing the Most Customizable New Vehicles for 2019–2020

SEMA announced its SEMA Vehicles of the Year winners ahead of the official start of the SEMA Show. In attendance were (from left) SEMA Chairman of the Board Tim Martin; RZR Product Planning Director Pat McArdle; SEMA President and CEO Chris Kersting; Head of MOPAR Marc Bosanac; Audi Senior Manager, Accessories and Collection Ian Avila; GM Vice President, Global Product Programs Tim Herrick; Marketing Manager, Silverado Hugh Milne; Ford Director, Advanced Strategy and Planning Todd Hoevener; SEMA Vice President of OEM and Product Development Programs Mike Spagnola; and SEMA Immediate Past Chairman/Secretary Wade Kawasaki.

Each year before the start of the SEMA Show, exhibitors are polled on the new vehicles that, to their minds, represent the best business opportunities for customization and accessorization via the aftermarket for the coming year. Vehicles are chosen in five distinct classes, and the winners are announced ahead of the start of the Show. This year’s announcement was made on Monday, November 4, before the first day of the 2019 SEMA Show. 
The winners are:

• SEMA Car of the Year: Ford Mustang
• SEMA Truck of the Year: Chevrolet Silverado
• SEMA 4x4/SUV of the Year: Jeep Wrangler
• SEMA Sport Compact of the Year: Audi RS 3
• SEMA Powersports Vehicle of the Year: Polaris RZR XP Ultimate

What follows on these pages is a sampling of the winning vehicles that exhibited at the 2019 SEMA Show, each one sporting a host of aftermarket accessories and upgrades.

SEMA Car of the Year: Ford Mustang

Webasto

On display at the Ford booth was what Webasto Customized Solutions calls “the best of both worlds,” a high-performance, all-electric ’19 Mustang Fastback. It’s powered by an 800V, 
750-kWh Webasto battery system with a dual-core electric motor that produces more than 1,000 lb.-ft. of torque. Along for the ride is a six-speed manual transmission with a short-throw shifter to retain a conventional driving feel. Suspension and chassis components are courtesy of Ford Performance, with street lowering springs and a GT350 brake kit. The Driveshaft Shop provided a carbon-fiber driveshaft to turn the gears in the Super Torsen 8.8 differential. A set of Michelin Sport Pilot 4S tires—275/35R20 in front, 295/35R20 in the rear—are wrapped around Forgeline NW102 rims. Recaro Sportster GT seats keep the occupants comfortable, and Sankauer Composite Technologies provided the “Lithium” front spoiler, side splitters and rear diffuser.

Liqui Moly

Straight from the Trans Am racing series, this ’19 Mustang Trans Am Racer from the Liqui Moly booth is all about performance. Underneath the hood lies a racing engine built by the Prefix Corp. These cars race on tracks like Circuit of the Americas, which require exceptional cornering capability. To help with that, the aero kit features a huge rear wing and a front splitter to optimize downforce. To ensure the Mustang is getting the most out of the downforce, Pirelli P-Zero tires are mounted for maximum grip. Pro System Brakes handled everything from the rotors to the cooling system, while Pagid Racing provided the brake pads. Sabelt provided parts for the interior.

Coverking

The modifications to this Mustang include a Gibson exhaust, an aFe Power GT intake, an aFe Power Scorcher Pro programmer and aFe Power BladeRunner intercooler tubes. The sixth-generation S550 Coupe sits on an Air Lift F/R airbag kit with Accuair VX4 valves. Dual Viair 444C compressors, a polished 4-gal. tank and an Accuair switch speed controller make the air suspension work. The exterior features VFF01 Verde wheels with black gloss and Proxes 4 Plus Toyo tires. The interior is all Coverking, including a dash cover, floor and cargo mats and seat covers. The concept was to show that you can build a great-looking car in a weekend with bolt-on off-the-shelf products that won’t break the bank or require permanent modifications to the vehicle.

SEMA Truck of the Year: Chevrolet Silverado

RotoPax

On display at the RotoPax booth was this ’19 Silverado 1500 that’s built to explore the backcountry. Built by Hunter Wallin, the Chevy rides on a Baja Kits Prerunner suspension system sporting King Shocks 2.5 coilovers, which clear a set of 37-in. BFGoodrich KM3s mounted on Fifteen52 rims, which in turn are nestled under FiberWerx fiberglass fenders and bedsides. Addictive Desert Designs bumpers provide additional protection, and a Leitner Designs ACD forged bed rack accommodates a raft of RotoPax fuel cells. Code 4 LED lights help light up the trail at night, and a Warn winch and recovery gear and a Pro Eagle 3-ton jack will be ready to assist should the Chevy falter.

Handjacked

The 4Play Wheels booth played host to this clean-looking ’19 Chevy built by truck builder Handjacked. The Silverado gets its altitude boost courtesy of a Pro Comp lift with Baja Kits upper control arms and King remote-reservoir shocks, and the lift is sufficient to clear 37x24 Toyo Mud-Terrains wrapped around 24x14-in. 4Play wheels. Exterior mods abound on this rig, including AMP Research power steps, a Rigid Radiance 30-in. light bar, a Warn winch, custom bed-mounted spare carriers and a full “Punisher” wrap and window tint. Inside, the seats are upholstered in bespoke Alea leather, and a custom Punisher instrument cluster and R/C tire calibrator provide form and function, respectively.

Belltech/KW Suspension

While this Chevy, which was on display at the Belltech booth, may seem understated, a peek underneath reveals some impressive new tech: a brand-new 6-in. KWA suspension system with four-way, remote-reservoir, aluminum-bodied coilover shocks that were a 2019 SEMA Show debut. The lift makes room in the wheelwells for 33x12.50 Toyo Open Country M/Ts mounted on 22x12 Blade gloss-black HO wheels. Borla supplied exhaust components, and a bed rug and tri-fold bed cover were sourced from GM Performance. Wally’s Collision Center performed paint and bodywork, Specialized Truck Accessories handled the tint, and MSD Embroidery and Print supplied the wrap.

Bulken Off-Road

SEMA Truck of the Year: Chevrolet Silverado

At the Bulken Off-Road Design booth, this ’19 Chevy Silverado Prerunner looks to be set up for some serious prerunning. A Baja Kits suspension system clears room in the wheelwells for a set of Toyo Open Country M/Ts mounted on Klutch Offroad wheels. The bodywork sports some trick ’glass fenders from FiberWerx, LED pod lights from Rigid Industries, a Ceramic Pro finish courtesy of Rakkasan Motorsports, and bumpers and side steps from Bulken Off-Road. Onboard is a BlackVue dash cam, an H3R fire extinguisher and a Viair portable compressor. The bed-mounted spare tire is kept in place with a set of tie-downs from Mac’s.

RockSlide Engineering

SEMA 4x4/SUV of the Year: Jeep Wrangler

A case of “less is more,” the list of parts adorning this Jeep at the RockSlide Engineering booth may be short, but virtually all of them are aimed at enhancing its functionality, starting with the Teraflex suspension system that clears BFG Mud-Terrrain KM3 tires mounted on a set of Ultra wheels. Inside, an American Adventure Labs M.A.S.S. organizer kit optimizes interior space for storage, while the exterior sports bumpers, fenders and step sliders from Rock Slide Engineering.

Superchips

SEMA 4x4/SUV of the Year: Jeep Wrangler

Displayed at the Holley booth, this ’19 Wrangler boasts an array of functional and stylish upgrades. Under the hood, a Holley Intech cold-air intake and Flowmaster exhaust improve aspiration, and a Superchips TrailDash 2 and TrailCal provide recalibration duties while Powerteq EAS power switches allow for greater integration of accessories. A Readylift suspension kit helps clear Fury OffRoad tires mounted on Black Rhino wheels, and a Superchips Lit LED lightbar improves trail visibility. Artec supplied the fender liners and LED mounts, Expedition One was the source for the bumpers, sliders and roof rack, and Thunder Mountain Truck Outfitters performed the installations.

Hauk Designs

This Wrangler, the handiwork of renowned builder Kenny Hauk of “Hauk Machines,” was on display at the Bullet Liner booth at the 2019 SEMA Show. Power comes from a supercharged 7.0L Hemi V8 that’s been set up to run on E85 ethanol and which has been dyno-tested at more than 1,000 hp. Driveline components include heavy-duty parts from Advance Adapters, Neapco and Revolution Gear & Axle, and the JL rides on a Teraflex suspension and Falcon shocks. Pit Bull tires and Raceline wheels comprise the rolling stock, and Wilwood disc brakes provide stoppage. Ethanol delivery is handled via components from Jaz Products, Mishimoto and Advanced Fuel Dynamics, and AutoMeter gauges monitor engine vitals from inside the cab.

Rockford Fosgate

SEMA Powersports Vehicle of the Year: Polaris RZR XP Ultimate

The Polaris in the Rockford Fosgate booth focused on the entertainment potential of the vehicle. The company installed its newest RZR14-Stage 5 kit, which is an upgrade from its Stage 4 kit. The audio system on the Polaris features a compact AM/FM/WB digital media receiver with a 2.7-in. display. The Polaris setup also includes two subwoofers with speakers in the front and rear. Small chassis amplifiers ramp up the power total to 1,000 watts. The Polaris sits on Raceline wheels and BFGoodrich Baja T/A tires, with Walker Evans shocks to help it travel through rough terrain. Rigid lighting provides visibility in low-light situations.

K&N Engineering

SEMA Powersports Vehicle of the Year: Polaris RZR XP Ultimate

K&N Engineering went a different route with its Polaris and focused on performance. The company added its performance air intake system to increase horsepower and torque. The filter is engineered to increase power by 6.1 horses and torque by 6.6 lb.-ft. Holz Racing Products also provided parts for improved performance. For better drivability over rough terrain, this Polaris relies on Walker Evans Racing shocks and wheels, with BFGoodrich Baja T/A tires. With an increase in performance comes an upgrade in comfort in the interior with Sparco racing seats. The interior also includes equipment from PCI Race Radios.

Rigid

The Polaris in Rigid’s booth was built for secure navigation over difficult terrain. The company kept the powertrain and chassis stock but added exterior modifications, 
BFGoodrich KR2 tires and Method 409 UTV Bead Grip race wheels. The brake calipers are ceramic coated by Moto Whips, and the coilovers are by Seal Savers. Auxiliary lighting includes a Rigid Adapt E-Series 40-in. light bar, Rigid chase lights and Rigid A-Series dome light and rock lights.

SEMA News—January 2020

EVENTS

By Fredy Ramirez and Douglas McColloch

The 2019 SEMA Vehicles of the Year

Recognizing the Most Customizable New Vehicles for 2019–2020

SEMA announced its SEMA Vehicles of the Year winners ahead of the official start of the SEMA Show. In attendance were (from left) SEMA Chairman of the Board Tim Martin; RZR Product Planning Director Pat McArdle; SEMA President and CEO Chris Kersting; Head of MOPAR Marc Bosanac; Audi Senior Manager, Accessories and Collection Ian Avila; GM Vice President, Global Product Programs Tim Herrick; Marketing Manager, Silverado Hugh Milne; Ford Director, Advanced Strategy and Planning Todd Hoevener; SEMA Vice President of OEM and Product Development Programs Mike Spagnola; and SEMA Immediate Past Chairman/Secretary Wade Kawasaki.

Each year before the start of the SEMA Show, exhibitors are polled on the new vehicles that, to their minds, represent the best business opportunities for customization and accessorization via the aftermarket for the coming year. Vehicles are chosen in five distinct classes, and the winners are announced ahead of the start of the Show. This year’s announcement was made on Monday, November 4, before the first day of the 2019 SEMA Show. 
The winners are:

• SEMA Car of the Year: Ford Mustang
• SEMA Truck of the Year: Chevrolet Silverado
• SEMA 4x4/SUV of the Year: Jeep Wrangler
• SEMA Sport Compact of the Year: Audi RS 3
• SEMA Powersports Vehicle of the Year: Polaris RZR XP Ultimate

What follows on these pages is a sampling of the winning vehicles that exhibited at the 2019 SEMA Show, each one sporting a host of aftermarket accessories and upgrades.

SEMA Car of the Year: Ford Mustang

Webasto

On display at the Ford booth was what Webasto Customized Solutions calls “the best of both worlds,” a high-performance, all-electric ’19 Mustang Fastback. It’s powered by an 800V, 
750-kWh Webasto battery system with a dual-core electric motor that produces more than 1,000 lb.-ft. of torque. Along for the ride is a six-speed manual transmission with a short-throw shifter to retain a conventional driving feel. Suspension and chassis components are courtesy of Ford Performance, with street lowering springs and a GT350 brake kit. The Driveshaft Shop provided a carbon-fiber driveshaft to turn the gears in the Super Torsen 8.8 differential. A set of Michelin Sport Pilot 4S tires—275/35R20 in front, 295/35R20 in the rear—are wrapped around Forgeline NW102 rims. Recaro Sportster GT seats keep the occupants comfortable, and Sankauer Composite Technologies provided the “Lithium” front spoiler, side splitters and rear diffuser.

Liqui Moly

Straight from the Trans Am racing series, this ’19 Mustang Trans Am Racer from the Liqui Moly booth is all about performance. Underneath the hood lies a racing engine built by the Prefix Corp. These cars race on tracks like Circuit of the Americas, which require exceptional cornering capability. To help with that, the aero kit features a huge rear wing and a front splitter to optimize downforce. To ensure the Mustang is getting the most out of the downforce, Pirelli P-Zero tires are mounted for maximum grip. Pro System Brakes handled everything from the rotors to the cooling system, while Pagid Racing provided the brake pads. Sabelt provided parts for the interior.

Coverking

The modifications to this Mustang include a Gibson exhaust, an aFe Power GT intake, an aFe Power Scorcher Pro programmer and aFe Power BladeRunner intercooler tubes. The sixth-generation S550 Coupe sits on an Air Lift F/R airbag kit with Accuair VX4 valves. Dual Viair 444C compressors, a polished 4-gal. tank and an Accuair switch speed controller make the air suspension work. The exterior features VFF01 Verde wheels with black gloss and Proxes 4 Plus Toyo tires. The interior is all Coverking, including a dash cover, floor and cargo mats and seat covers. The concept was to show that you can build a great-looking car in a weekend with bolt-on off-the-shelf products that won’t break the bank or require permanent modifications to the vehicle.

SEMA Truck of the Year: Chevrolet Silverado

RotoPax

On display at the RotoPax booth was this ’19 Silverado 1500 that’s built to explore the backcountry. Built by Hunter Wallin, the Chevy rides on a Baja Kits Prerunner suspension system sporting King Shocks 2.5 coilovers, which clear a set of 37-in. BFGoodrich KM3s mounted on Fifteen52 rims, which in turn are nestled under FiberWerx fiberglass fenders and bedsides. Addictive Desert Designs bumpers provide additional protection, and a Leitner Designs ACD forged bed rack accommodates a raft of RotoPax fuel cells. Code 4 LED lights help light up the trail at night, and a Warn winch and recovery gear and a Pro Eagle 3-ton jack will be ready to assist should the Chevy falter.

Handjacked

The 4Play Wheels booth played host to this clean-looking ’19 Chevy built by truck builder Handjacked. The Silverado gets its altitude boost courtesy of a Pro Comp lift with Baja Kits upper control arms and King remote-reservoir shocks, and the lift is sufficient to clear 37x24 Toyo Mud-Terrains wrapped around 24x14-in. 4Play wheels. Exterior mods abound on this rig, including AMP Research power steps, a Rigid Radiance 30-in. light bar, a Warn winch, custom bed-mounted spare carriers and a full “Punisher” wrap and window tint. Inside, the seats are upholstered in bespoke Alea leather, and a custom Punisher instrument cluster and R/C tire calibrator provide form and function, respectively.

Belltech/KW Suspension

While this Chevy, which was on display at the Belltech booth, may seem understated, a peek underneath reveals some impressive new tech: a brand-new 6-in. KWA suspension system with four-way, remote-reservoir, aluminum-bodied coilover shocks that were a 2019 SEMA Show debut. The lift makes room in the wheelwells for 33x12.50 Toyo Open Country M/Ts mounted on 22x12 Blade gloss-black HO wheels. Borla supplied exhaust components, and a bed rug and tri-fold bed cover were sourced from GM Performance. Wally’s Collision Center performed paint and bodywork, Specialized Truck Accessories handled the tint, and MSD Embroidery and Print supplied the wrap.

Bulken Off-Road

SEMA Truck of the Year: Chevrolet Silverado

At the Bulken Off-Road Design booth, this ’19 Chevy Silverado Prerunner looks to be set up for some serious prerunning. A Baja Kits suspension system clears room in the wheelwells for a set of Toyo Open Country M/Ts mounted on Klutch Offroad wheels. The bodywork sports some trick ’glass fenders from FiberWerx, LED pod lights from Rigid Industries, a Ceramic Pro finish courtesy of Rakkasan Motorsports, and bumpers and side steps from Bulken Off-Road. Onboard is a BlackVue dash cam, an H3R fire extinguisher and a Viair portable compressor. The bed-mounted spare tire is kept in place with a set of tie-downs from Mac’s.

RockSlide Engineering

SEMA 4x4/SUV of the Year: Jeep Wrangler

A case of “less is more,” the list of parts adorning this Jeep at the RockSlide Engineering booth may be short, but virtually all of them are aimed at enhancing its functionality, starting with the Teraflex suspension system that clears BFG Mud-Terrrain KM3 tires mounted on a set of Ultra wheels. Inside, an American Adventure Labs M.A.S.S. organizer kit optimizes interior space for storage, while the exterior sports bumpers, fenders and step sliders from Rock Slide Engineering.

Superchips

SEMA 4x4/SUV of the Year: Jeep Wrangler

Displayed at the Holley booth, this ’19 Wrangler boasts an array of functional and stylish upgrades. Under the hood, a Holley Intech cold-air intake and Flowmaster exhaust improve aspiration, and a Superchips TrailDash 2 and TrailCal provide recalibration duties while Powerteq EAS power switches allow for greater integration of accessories. A Readylift suspension kit helps clear Fury OffRoad tires mounted on Black Rhino wheels, and a Superchips Lit LED lightbar improves trail visibility. Artec supplied the fender liners and LED mounts, Expedition One was the source for the bumpers, sliders and roof rack, and Thunder Mountain Truck Outfitters performed the installations.

Hauk Designs

This Wrangler, the handiwork of renowned builder Kenny Hauk of “Hauk Machines,” was on display at the Bullet Liner booth at the 2019 SEMA Show. Power comes from a supercharged 7.0L Hemi V8 that’s been set up to run on E85 ethanol and which has been dyno-tested at more than 1,000 hp. Driveline components include heavy-duty parts from Advance Adapters, Neapco and Revolution Gear & Axle, and the JL rides on a Teraflex suspension and Falcon shocks. Pit Bull tires and Raceline wheels comprise the rolling stock, and Wilwood disc brakes provide stoppage. Ethanol delivery is handled via components from Jaz Products, Mishimoto and Advanced Fuel Dynamics, and AutoMeter gauges monitor engine vitals from inside the cab.

Rockford Fosgate

SEMA Powersports Vehicle of the Year: Polaris RZR XP Ultimate

The Polaris in the Rockford Fosgate booth focused on the entertainment potential of the vehicle. The company installed its newest RZR14-Stage 5 kit, which is an upgrade from its Stage 4 kit. The audio system on the Polaris features a compact AM/FM/WB digital media receiver with a 2.7-in. display. The Polaris setup also includes two subwoofers with speakers in the front and rear. Small chassis amplifiers ramp up the power total to 1,000 watts. The Polaris sits on Raceline wheels and BFGoodrich Baja T/A tires, with Walker Evans shocks to help it travel through rough terrain. Rigid lighting provides visibility in low-light situations.

K&N Engineering

SEMA Powersports Vehicle of the Year: Polaris RZR XP Ultimate

K&N Engineering went a different route with its Polaris and focused on performance. The company added its performance air intake system to increase horsepower and torque. The filter is engineered to increase power by 6.1 horses and torque by 6.6 lb.-ft. Holz Racing Products also provided parts for improved performance. For better drivability over rough terrain, this Polaris relies on Walker Evans Racing shocks and wheels, with BFGoodrich Baja T/A tires. With an increase in performance comes an upgrade in comfort in the interior with Sparco racing seats. The interior also includes equipment from PCI Race Radios.

Rigid

The Polaris in Rigid’s booth was built for secure navigation over difficult terrain. The company kept the powertrain and chassis stock but added exterior modifications, 
BFGoodrich KR2 tires and Method 409 UTV Bead Grip race wheels. The brake calipers are ceramic coated by Moto Whips, and the coilovers are by Seal Savers. Auxiliary lighting includes a Rigid Adapt E-Series 40-in. light bar, Rigid chase lights and Rigid A-Series dome light and rock lights.

SEMA News—January 2020

EVENTS

2019 SEMA Show Highlights

How Did You SEMA?

By John Stewart

As the world’s premier automotive trade show, the SEMA Show reflects the $44 billion automotive aftermarket, bringing together every segment of the industry—from hot rods to mobile electronics and collision repair. And if this year’s Show is any indication, the industry is alive, well and poised for another great year.

Even though final numbers were yet to be tallied as this issue’s deadline approached, indications that the 2019 Show delivered value were apparent. Overall participation continued to increase, as the number of exhibiting companies grew by nearly 3%.

As in recent years, the industry made use of every available space in the Las Vegas Convention Center and its adjacent lots. Buyer attendance was strong, and total attendance (estimated one week after Show close) was in the range of 162,000 people. Sponsorship demand increased significantly as exhibitors sought to promote their presence, and attendance at industry events such as the annual Industry Awards Banquet was up considerably compared to 2018.

Show attendees took advantage of educational opportunities in record numbers, as seminar attendance was up 20% over 2018. For the first time, educational events took place on the Show floor. Some of the new Show-floor educational content, such as that hosted by Myles Kovacs from DUB magazine, which took place in Lower South Hall, was released in the weeks following the Show.

The SEMA Show is open to only industry professionals, but the SEMA Ignited after-party event is open to the public and attracted more than 20,000 enthusiastic consumers, who came to take in the steady stream of custom creations and take part in the filming of the one-hour “SEMA: Battle of the Builders” TV special that is scheduled to debut on A+E Networks’ FYI and History’s Drive block in 2020. Visit www.SEMAShow.com/botb for information about show dates and times.

The accompanying photos and captions highlight just a few of the moments that made the 2019 SEMA Show memorable. It’s perhaps no coincidence that the newly revised 
www.SEMAShow.com website has already taken hundreds of orders for the 2020 Show, to be held November 3­–6, in the Las Vegas Convention Center.

Breaking News: More than 3,000 well-connected members of the media attend the SEMA Show each year, creating an opportunity for exhibitors to showcase creations that might just become the next viral sensation. Media attendees feasted on the opportunity to identify emerging trends and interview industry leaders and innovators. The SEMA Monday Night Reveal event was just one of dozens of media events in which exhibitors uncorked exciting new cars, products and concepts—in this case, GM’s all-new, mid-engine ’20 Stingray convertible.	Go-Time for Buyers: More than 70,000 buyers from more than 140 countries attended the 2019 SEMA Show, searching for new products and new vendors. Others came for deals and discounts and to keep up on trends. Repeat attendees took time to renew friendships and visit with key suppliers. All were assisted this year by a newly upgraded SEMA Show app that improved navigation and supplied information. One thing was clear: If you’re in the automotive specialty parts business, the SEMA Show was the place to be in November.
New-Product Blizzard: More than 3,000 products were entered into the New Products Showcase this year, each seeking recognition in the marketplace of ideas. Veteran teams of judges tackled the daunting job of identifying the top entries in 16 categories, looking for quality, craftsmanship, technical achievement and consumer appeal. This year, the SEMA Show app helped make connections, enabling buyers to use their smartphones to download photos and information about the products they were interested in and directing them to exhibitor booths.	Making the Old New Again: “Restored” is not exactly the right word to describe Jay Leno’s ’66 Bronco, unveiled Tuesday morning before a crowd of hundreds of attendees. It may look like an original classic, but under the sheetmetal, a powerful Ford EcoBoost engine and long-travel suspension equip this early Bronco with the legs to power up the face of the tallest dune. It’s all part of the industry’s obsession to make the old new again—but better than it ever was.
Gaining Insight: Innovative delivery of educational topics made a difference this year, when seminars made their way to sites on the Show floor for the first time. Education was a key feature of the new Overland Experience display in the Performance Pavilion. Overall seminar attendance grew by more than 20% as attendees packed 140 sessions on a variety of topics, allowing thousands to leave Las Vegas with sharper skills, boosted knowledge and greater awareness of best practices for their businesses.	The Place to Do Business: At the SEMA Show, more than 2,300 exhibitors invest each year in the opportunity to display their newest products, leveraging the opportunity to meet with hundreds of customers in one short week and explore crossover business opportunities in an automotive melting pot encompassing 12 separate categories. The most successful exhibitors attract buyers with well-designed product displays, smartly targeted marketing, and salespeople who know their product lines inside and out. Day by day, one conversation at a time, sales leads accumulated to provide a pathway to a successful 2020.
Expect the Unexpected: Veteran attendees of the SEMA Show know that it’s best to arrive at the event with a solid plan to make the most of every hour of their time in the exhibit halls. But smart attendees also know to build free time into the plan to explore, to experience new things and to discover, because no matter how many times you have been to the SEMA Show, there is always something unexpected waiting to present itself.	Honoring Creativity: At the first SEMA Show, there was just one car on display. At this year’s Show, there were 1,500—nearly 300 of which qualified for the sixth annual Battle of the Builders competition. Elite builders as well as new customizers used cars as canvases to display their talent, creativity and craftsmanship. This year, a conspicuous contingent of young builders jumped in to contend for their share of fame. In the end, the top builder prize went to Mike and Jim Ring for their stunning ’69 Camaro, but it’s clear that the next generation—rich in talent and inspiration—will be heard in years to come.

SEMA News—January 2020

EVENTS

2019 SEMA Show Highlights

How Did You SEMA?

By John Stewart

As the world’s premier automotive trade show, the SEMA Show reflects the $44 billion automotive aftermarket, bringing together every segment of the industry—from hot rods to mobile electronics and collision repair. And if this year’s Show is any indication, the industry is alive, well and poised for another great year.

Even though final numbers were yet to be tallied as this issue’s deadline approached, indications that the 2019 Show delivered value were apparent. Overall participation continued to increase, as the number of exhibiting companies grew by nearly 3%.

As in recent years, the industry made use of every available space in the Las Vegas Convention Center and its adjacent lots. Buyer attendance was strong, and total attendance (estimated one week after Show close) was in the range of 162,000 people. Sponsorship demand increased significantly as exhibitors sought to promote their presence, and attendance at industry events such as the annual Industry Awards Banquet was up considerably compared to 2018.

Show attendees took advantage of educational opportunities in record numbers, as seminar attendance was up 20% over 2018. For the first time, educational events took place on the Show floor. Some of the new Show-floor educational content, such as that hosted by Myles Kovacs from DUB magazine, which took place in Lower South Hall, was released in the weeks following the Show.

The SEMA Show is open to only industry professionals, but the SEMA Ignited after-party event is open to the public and attracted more than 20,000 enthusiastic consumers, who came to take in the steady stream of custom creations and take part in the filming of the one-hour “SEMA: Battle of the Builders” TV special that is scheduled to debut on A+E Networks’ FYI and History’s Drive block in 2020. Visit www.SEMAShow.com/botb for information about show dates and times.

The accompanying photos and captions highlight just a few of the moments that made the 2019 SEMA Show memorable. It’s perhaps no coincidence that the newly revised 
www.SEMAShow.com website has already taken hundreds of orders for the 2020 Show, to be held November 3­–6, in the Las Vegas Convention Center.

Breaking News: More than 3,000 well-connected members of the media attend the SEMA Show each year, creating an opportunity for exhibitors to showcase creations that might just become the next viral sensation. Media attendees feasted on the opportunity to identify emerging trends and interview industry leaders and innovators. The SEMA Monday Night Reveal event was just one of dozens of media events in which exhibitors uncorked exciting new cars, products and concepts—in this case, GM’s all-new, mid-engine ’20 Stingray convertible.	Go-Time for Buyers: More than 70,000 buyers from more than 140 countries attended the 2019 SEMA Show, searching for new products and new vendors. Others came for deals and discounts and to keep up on trends. Repeat attendees took time to renew friendships and visit with key suppliers. All were assisted this year by a newly upgraded SEMA Show app that improved navigation and supplied information. One thing was clear: If you’re in the automotive specialty parts business, the SEMA Show was the place to be in November.
New-Product Blizzard: More than 3,000 products were entered into the New Products Showcase this year, each seeking recognition in the marketplace of ideas. Veteran teams of judges tackled the daunting job of identifying the top entries in 16 categories, looking for quality, craftsmanship, technical achievement and consumer appeal. This year, the SEMA Show app helped make connections, enabling buyers to use their smartphones to download photos and information about the products they were interested in and directing them to exhibitor booths.	Making the Old New Again: “Restored” is not exactly the right word to describe Jay Leno’s ’66 Bronco, unveiled Tuesday morning before a crowd of hundreds of attendees. It may look like an original classic, but under the sheetmetal, a powerful Ford EcoBoost engine and long-travel suspension equip this early Bronco with the legs to power up the face of the tallest dune. It’s all part of the industry’s obsession to make the old new again—but better than it ever was.
Gaining Insight: Innovative delivery of educational topics made a difference this year, when seminars made their way to sites on the Show floor for the first time. Education was a key feature of the new Overland Experience display in the Performance Pavilion. Overall seminar attendance grew by more than 20% as attendees packed 140 sessions on a variety of topics, allowing thousands to leave Las Vegas with sharper skills, boosted knowledge and greater awareness of best practices for their businesses.	The Place to Do Business: At the SEMA Show, more than 2,300 exhibitors invest each year in the opportunity to display their newest products, leveraging the opportunity to meet with hundreds of customers in one short week and explore crossover business opportunities in an automotive melting pot encompassing 12 separate categories. The most successful exhibitors attract buyers with well-designed product displays, smartly targeted marketing, and salespeople who know their product lines inside and out. Day by day, one conversation at a time, sales leads accumulated to provide a pathway to a successful 2020.
Expect the Unexpected: Veteran attendees of the SEMA Show know that it’s best to arrive at the event with a solid plan to make the most of every hour of their time in the exhibit halls. But smart attendees also know to build free time into the plan to explore, to experience new things and to discover, because no matter how many times you have been to the SEMA Show, there is always something unexpected waiting to present itself.	Honoring Creativity: At the first SEMA Show, there was just one car on display. At this year’s Show, there were 1,500—nearly 300 of which qualified for the sixth annual Battle of the Builders competition. Elite builders as well as new customizers used cars as canvases to display their talent, creativity and craftsmanship. This year, a conspicuous contingent of young builders jumped in to contend for their share of fame. In the end, the top builder prize went to Mike and Jim Ring for their stunning ’69 Camaro, but it’s clear that the next generation—rich in talent and inspiration—will be heard in years to come.

SEMA Member News—January 2020

Young Innovators and Leaders in the Spotlight

The U.S. map let YEN members identify their region and post photos using a Polaroid camera.

For industry professionals 39 years of age or younger, the 2019 SEMA Show offered unique opportunities to cultivate and recognize young talent. Ranging from the Launch Pad hosted by the Young Executives Network (YEN) to the network’s awards reception, members of YEN were able to take advantage of networking and professional-development opportunities during the Show.

For starters, the annual SEMA Launch Pad, Powered by YEN, took place at the Westgate Theater in Las Vegas on Monday, November 4. Billed as the premier industry competition for young entrepreneurs, the eagerly awaited event was emceed by Discovery Channel’s Aaron Kaufman of Dallas-based ArcLight Fabrication.

From an initial field of 15 competitors, later narrowed to 10 semi-finalists, the Launch Pad gave the top five finalists a platform to pitch their business concepts to a panel of industry judges, along with a chance to win a prize package valued at $10,000. For 2019, Reid Lunde of Kaizen Speed took home the grand prize.

Other finalists included TJ Hammerle of Trac Top LLC; Riley Koidahl of The Paddock; Christopher Steven Owens of Last Drop Wrench; and Wesley Poole of Forged Authority. The judges were world champion drifter Vaughn Gittin Jr., president of RTR Vehicles; Sean Holman of MotorTrend Group and co-creator/co-host of “The Truck Show” podcast; Dan Kahn, president and CEO of Kahn Media; Wade Kawasaki, CEO of Legendary Companies; and Hellwig Products President Melanie White.

YEN Salutes Industry Leaders

With more than 400 attendees, the ’90s-themed YEN Reception reached beyond expectations and allowed members to freely network while enjoying light beverages.

What do you get when an enthusiastic crowd of about 500 young professionals gets together? The annual YEN Awards Reception, of course.

Presented at the Westgate Las Vegas Resort & Casino on Tuesday evening November 5, the reception was the group’s number-one networking experience. The high-energy event, which included drinks and appetizers, gave YENsters ample opportunities to make new acquaintances, build new connections, share stories and reconnect with colleagues and peers.

But the reception wouldn’t have been complete without an awards ceremony honoring industry leaders. For 2019, the Vanguard Award, which is presented to an individual, business, organization or sanctioning body that has had a positive effect on a young executive’s career within the automotive industry, went to Matthew Boice of Motor Trend. The Young Executive of the Year Award went to Matt Beenen of BullRight Industries.

“Since winning the 2018 Launch Pad competition, Matt Beenen has provided valuable feedback and insights to improve the program and better serve the competitors,” said YEN Chair-Elect Nick Caloroso. “Matt has stepped up to assist YEN with every opportunity presented to him. We are grateful for his contributions and honor him with this award.”

SEMA Member News—January 2020

Young Innovators and Leaders in the Spotlight

The U.S. map let YEN members identify their region and post photos using a Polaroid camera.

For industry professionals 39 years of age or younger, the 2019 SEMA Show offered unique opportunities to cultivate and recognize young talent. Ranging from the Launch Pad hosted by the Young Executives Network (YEN) to the network’s awards reception, members of YEN were able to take advantage of networking and professional-development opportunities during the Show.

For starters, the annual SEMA Launch Pad, Powered by YEN, took place at the Westgate Theater in Las Vegas on Monday, November 4. Billed as the premier industry competition for young entrepreneurs, the eagerly awaited event was emceed by Discovery Channel’s Aaron Kaufman of Dallas-based ArcLight Fabrication.

From an initial field of 15 competitors, later narrowed to 10 semi-finalists, the Launch Pad gave the top five finalists a platform to pitch their business concepts to a panel of industry judges, along with a chance to win a prize package valued at $10,000. For 2019, Reid Lunde of Kaizen Speed took home the grand prize.

Other finalists included TJ Hammerle of Trac Top LLC; Riley Koidahl of The Paddock; Christopher Steven Owens of Last Drop Wrench; and Wesley Poole of Forged Authority. The judges were world champion drifter Vaughn Gittin Jr., president of RTR Vehicles; Sean Holman of MotorTrend Group and co-creator/co-host of “The Truck Show” podcast; Dan Kahn, president and CEO of Kahn Media; Wade Kawasaki, CEO of Legendary Companies; and Hellwig Products President Melanie White.

YEN Salutes Industry Leaders

With more than 400 attendees, the ’90s-themed YEN Reception reached beyond expectations and allowed members to freely network while enjoying light beverages.

What do you get when an enthusiastic crowd of about 500 young professionals gets together? The annual YEN Awards Reception, of course.

Presented at the Westgate Las Vegas Resort & Casino on Tuesday evening November 5, the reception was the group’s number-one networking experience. The high-energy event, which included drinks and appetizers, gave YENsters ample opportunities to make new acquaintances, build new connections, share stories and reconnect with colleagues and peers.

But the reception wouldn’t have been complete without an awards ceremony honoring industry leaders. For 2019, the Vanguard Award, which is presented to an individual, business, organization or sanctioning body that has had a positive effect on a young executive’s career within the automotive industry, went to Matthew Boice of Motor Trend. The Young Executive of the Year Award went to Matt Beenen of BullRight Industries.

“Since winning the 2018 Launch Pad competition, Matt Beenen has provided valuable feedback and insights to improve the program and better serve the competitors,” said YEN Chair-Elect Nick Caloroso. “Matt has stepped up to assist YEN with every opportunity presented to him. We are grateful for his contributions and honor him with this award.”

SEMA Member News—January 2020

Shining a Light on Women in the Workplace

Network members enjoy their evening during the SBN Reception held in the beautiful Westgate Hotel ballroom.

Providing opportunities for professional women in the automotive specialty-equipment industry is a top priority for the SEMA Businesswomen’s Network (SBN). The SEMA Show affords SBN members multiple ways to hone leadership skills, encourage the advancement and growth of women in the industry, and inspire entry into the industry through education and mentoring.

Advancing Careers Through Networking

At the 2019 Show, SBN kicked off its women-centric initiatives on Monday afternoon with the ever-popular Gear-Up Girl women-only networking event. As in prior years, the gathering drew an enthusiastic standing-room-only crowd of more than 100 members who were welcomed by network chair Lana Chrisman.

During an awards ceremony at the event, two accomplished women were recognized for their dedication to supporting women in the industry. The Woman of Year award was presented to Emma LaFever of Roush Yates.

“SBN was honored to recognize Jennifer for her passion and support of women in the industry,” Chrisman said. “Jennifer exemplifies SheIsSEMA. She’s engaged, passionate about our industry, committed to education, and an exceptional volunteer who works hard to bring young women into SEMA.”

The Rising Star Award is presented to the SBN scholarship awardee. To pay tribute to race-car driver Jessi Combs, who passed away in a tragic accident in August 2019, SBN renamed the award in her name.

Gear-up Girl is a highly anticipated event sponsored by the SBN and SEMA Education to bring together students and female industry professionals.

“Jessi was a big supporter of the SBN, women, youth in the industry and our Gear-Up Girl event,” Chrisman said. “So it was fitting that we presented the Jessi Combs Rising Star award to our scholarship honoree Emma Powers in recognition of her interest in being part of our industry and her commitment to advancing her career.”

To encourage other young women to connect with industry-leading professional women, female students who participated in the SEMA Student Program were invited to attend Gear-Up Girl.

“SBN is focusing more on networking and engaging with and mentoring young women,” Chrisman said. “Gear-Up Girl gives female students a chance to meet and learn from successful women in our industry who want to support young women interested in pursuing careers in the aftermarket.”

Fostering Equality and Camaraderie

A new addition to last year’s SEMA Show, the U.S. map gave SBN Members the opportunity to proudly represent where they are from by posting photos to the map.

During the second leg of SBN’s Women Driven program, speaker, trainer and author Julie Kratz of Pivot Point shared stories, ideas and research from her book One: How Male Allies Support Women for Gender Equality. The Tuesday seminar, titled “Men as Allies: How Allies Partner for Equality,” touched on proven strategies for men and women to succeed together, including engaging allies in a diverse and inclusive workplace and utilizing tangible tools and strategies to facilitate interactive discussions on allies in the workplace.

In keeping with the collaborative theme, SBN’s Wednesday reception at the Westgate Resort & Casino set the stage for an evening of networking and camaraderie. During the much-anticipated event, conversation flowed as a capacity crowd of industry women shared stories and experiences, made new connections and learned more about SBN resources as select committee members mixed and mingled with the crowd.

SEMA Member News—January 2020

Shining a Light on Women in the Workplace

Network members enjoy their evening during the SBN Reception held in the beautiful Westgate Hotel ballroom.

Providing opportunities for professional women in the automotive specialty-equipment industry is a top priority for the SEMA Businesswomen’s Network (SBN). The SEMA Show affords SBN members multiple ways to hone leadership skills, encourage the advancement and growth of women in the industry, and inspire entry into the industry through education and mentoring.

Advancing Careers Through Networking

At the 2019 Show, SBN kicked off its women-centric initiatives on Monday afternoon with the ever-popular Gear-Up Girl women-only networking event. As in prior years, the gathering drew an enthusiastic standing-room-only crowd of more than 100 members who were welcomed by network chair Lana Chrisman.

During an awards ceremony at the event, two accomplished women were recognized for their dedication to supporting women in the industry. The Woman of Year award was presented to Emma LaFever of Roush Yates.

“SBN was honored to recognize Jennifer for her passion and support of women in the industry,” Chrisman said. “Jennifer exemplifies SheIsSEMA. She’s engaged, passionate about our industry, committed to education, and an exceptional volunteer who works hard to bring young women into SEMA.”

The Rising Star Award is presented to the SBN scholarship awardee. To pay tribute to race-car driver Jessi Combs, who passed away in a tragic accident in August 2019, SBN renamed the award in her name.

Gear-up Girl is a highly anticipated event sponsored by the SBN and SEMA Education to bring together students and female industry professionals.

“Jessi was a big supporter of the SBN, women, youth in the industry and our Gear-Up Girl event,” Chrisman said. “So it was fitting that we presented the Jessi Combs Rising Star award to our scholarship honoree Emma Powers in recognition of her interest in being part of our industry and her commitment to advancing her career.”

To encourage other young women to connect with industry-leading professional women, female students who participated in the SEMA Student Program were invited to attend Gear-Up Girl.

“SBN is focusing more on networking and engaging with and mentoring young women,” Chrisman said. “Gear-Up Girl gives female students a chance to meet and learn from successful women in our industry who want to support young women interested in pursuing careers in the aftermarket.”

Fostering Equality and Camaraderie

A new addition to last year’s SEMA Show, the U.S. map gave SBN Members the opportunity to proudly represent where they are from by posting photos to the map.

During the second leg of SBN’s Women Driven program, speaker, trainer and author Julie Kratz of Pivot Point shared stories, ideas and research from her book One: How Male Allies Support Women for Gender Equality. The Tuesday seminar, titled “Men as Allies: How Allies Partner for Equality,” touched on proven strategies for men and women to succeed together, including engaging allies in a diverse and inclusive workplace and utilizing tangible tools and strategies to facilitate interactive discussions on allies in the workplace.

In keeping with the collaborative theme, SBN’s Wednesday reception at the Westgate Resort & Casino set the stage for an evening of networking and camaraderie. During the much-anticipated event, conversation flowed as a capacity crowd of industry women shared stories and experiences, made new connections and learned more about SBN resources as select committee members mixed and mingled with the crowd.